Exploring user preferences regarding facial interface expressions of service robots across multiple age groups: A case study of the Kebbi Air robot

Abstract: The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and remote communication technology has enabled development and application of AI robots beyond industrial use, with such robots being applied for household use and services. In such applications, the facial expressions of robots are crucial to information exchange between humans and machines. The ability of robots to subtly change their facial expressions and respond sensitively to the emotional states of humans is a key focus in the development of service robots.This study analyses the Kebbi Air robot, exploring the preferences of users across various age groups (young people, middle-aged adults, and older adults) regarding the facial interface design styles applied to service robots (flat vs. realistic design). It also analyses how different design styles affect user recognition of robot facial expressions portraying emotions. This study developed a set of recommendations pertaining to facial expression styles for the Kebbi Air robot. The study comprised 2 phases. In the first phase, 21 older participants from Zuozhen, Tainan, Taiwan, were recruited to participate in a questionnaire survey and interview to enable assessment of their preferences regarding facial interface designs for robots. In the second phase, the survey plus interview format was repeated to compare the age-stratified data collected from four groups of participants stratified by age (i.e., older adults, middle-aged adults, prime adults and young people).The results indicate that regardless of design style, the younger participants were generally more accurate in recognising robot facial expressions than the other participants were. Furthermore, they demonstrated a higher level of emotional recognition for expressions portrayed in the realistic style, and they expressed a greater willingness to interact with robot interfaces. On the basis of this study’s findings, qualitative suggestions were proposed for various age groups; these suggestions encompassed style recommendations for robot facial expressions (e.g., eyebrows, eyes, mouth, and auxiliary symbols). Through its empirical exploration, this study provides valuable insights and recommendations for designing robot-friendly interfaces for multiple age groups.

Keywords: Facial Interface Expression, Flat Design, Interface Design, Service Robots, Skeuomorph

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1004618

Cite this paper:

​